Netflix has officially entered the ring with its new Australian drama series, Territory, which has quickly drawn comparisons to the highly successful show Yellowstone. If you find yourself missing the gripping family drama and intense land disputes of the Dutton family saga, this latest offering should certainly fill the void. Released on October 24, 2024, Territory debuted to immediate acclaim, securing its place at the top of Netflix's viewing charts worldwide and even making waves across multiple countries.
At the heart of Territory lies the gripping saga of the Lawson family, owners of the world’s largest cattle station, Marianne Station, set against the breathtaking landscapes of Australia’s Northern Territory. The series kicks off with the untimely death of Daniel Lawson, the heir to the family legacy, whose tragic end sets off intense struggles between family members trying to wrest control of their heritage, rival cattle farmers, and the looming threat of encroachment by corporate interests and local Indigenous communities.
Starring Anna Torv, known for her standout role in Mindhunter, the show introduces viewers to Emily Lawson, who steps up as the matriarch when the unexpected twists of fate returns her family dynamics as charged as those on Yellowstone. With the central themes mirroring familial ties, land ownership battles, and emotional fractures, fans of Kevin Costner's Yellowstone are intrigued by the parallels, even if Territory offers its unique flavor with distinctive Australian cultural nuances.
The ensemble cast also includes other notable actors like Michael Dorman, Robert Taylor, and Philippa Northeast, portraying the various stakes involved—ranging from family loyalty to corporate greed. The palpable tension between characters is likely to resonate with Yellowstone fans, who have come to love those dramatic conflicts. Critics have described the show as “constantly watchable” and “Succession meets the outback,” which bodes well for its staying power among viewers.
Despite its early success, the future of Territory is still uncertain. Netflix has not yet confirmed whether Territory will be renewed for season two. Viewership ratings and audience reactions will play pivotal roles, as Netflix traditionally evaluates the performance of new series over the first 30 days after release. Given its current standing, many industry experts speculate it has every chance of continuing past its six-episode run.
The series ends with several unanswered questions, leaving plenty of room for speculation about what may happen next should the yellow light inspire Netflix to green-light another season. Compelling plotlines, like the potential fallout from Colin Lawson (played by Robert Taylor) learning of the role Emily played in her son’s death, position Territory for dramatic revelations. The audience is left wondering how family dynamics will evolve, particularly after the acquisition of the keys to the house—alluding to new leadership within the Lawson lineage.
Internationally, Territory is proving to be especially popular, claiming the top slots on Netflix’s rankings not only within Australia but extending its reach to countries like Argentina, Belgium, and Germany. These impressive figures signal to the streaming giant’s executives the international appeal of the series and the potential desire for spin-offs, reminiscent of Yellowstone's expansion with titles like 1883 and 1923. If Territory continues on this upward trend, doors could soon open for additional stories set against the outback backdrop.
Territory is not merely about land disputes—it tackles themes such as identity, cultural heritage, and resilience against outside pressures, presenting audiences with depth alongside the thrills. What weighs heavily throughout the season is the struggle for ownership—not just of land but of cultural narratives and legacies. This angle, combined with riveting performances and the stunning Australian scenery, creates compelling television.
While the buzz surrounding Territory continues, its potential for renewal remains under the watchful eye of fans and Netflix itself. The finale holds significant stakes, with Susie Lawson (Northeast) suffering from tragedy and newfound tensions rising among family members. With these deeply woven narratives, audiences await the definitive answer on whether the series will return to unravel more of the Lawson family saga.
For now, Territory is available for streaming on Netflix, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the Lawson’s tumultuous world. Keep your hats on tight—this ride through the Australian outback is just beginning, and it certainly looks like there’s more drama to come.
